Optometry degree in my 40s?

[ILoveaSunflower]

I'm thinking of applying for an optometry degree as it's a subject I'm interested in and I have already been working in the industry for 19 years in a much lower ranking capacity. Currently working 3 days a week.

My pay is abysmal and very unlikely to change much unless I leave and find a job elsewhere which I don't want to. My husband works full time in a well paid job but with the cost of living crisis and all 3 kids now in school I feel I need to do something to increase our income as a family.

If I re train as an optometrist I will double my current salary and can stay working at the same practice close to my children's school

But...I have three DC and I'm 43 and I just don't know if I can pull it off with childcare and studying around them. Ok m worried I'm too old and don't have enough time left for 4 years study. We have no family near by but we do have wrap around care at the school.

Then i don't know how I will cope with the actual job itself with the childcare commitments that I have. Obviously I have colleagues already doing this job but no one is in the same position as I am as they all trained before kids.

Can anyone tell me what studying around kids might be like and if they have found optometry to be family friendly?

Firstly, while no one is ever ‘too old’ to study, I was quite surprised to see this page on Manchester U. website - referring to A’ Levels or equivalent. I don’t know how many institutions you’ve considered. But presumably your years of experience will be in your favour.

It’s noticeable that your plans all seem to be centred on your current workplace. What sort of set-up is it - given that your pay is so low? Are they supportive regarding employee’s career progress? If your course requires more than two days attendance will your employers be flexible? And have they confirmed that there would be a job at a higher level available for you once you have the degree?

It is quite distressing that childcare apparently seems to fall entirely to you … But with wrap around childcare at school, and presumably the financial ability to pay for more if necessary, surely the only contingency is attending an institution that’s logistically convenient?

(I can’t comment on the specifics of studying this particular degree.)

You seem to know it will be a challenge because of the children. How much do you see your children now? As in spend quality time with them?

And if you did the degree how much less time, if any, would you be able to spend actual time with them?

Thanks for your reply.
I should have added that work are going to sponsor me to do the course so I know I have a job at the end of it.

And yes the childcare situation is not well balanced I agree

The University is an hour away.

If your work are supportive and sponsoring you I think you would be mad not to do it! My MIL started a full time undergraduate degree when she was 58 and enjoyed it so much that she did a full time masters straight afterwards, so you are definitely not too old! If you don't do it, the next 4 years will fly past and you'll look back and think 'what if . .'